Neslihan Dela Cruz, BSc, Ms, Pmp
About Neslihan Dela Cruz, BSc, Ms, Pmp
Neslihan Dela Cruz is the Director of CMC Strategy at Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc., with extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry. She has held various leadership roles at companies such as Genentech, Amgen, and Biotie Therapies, focusing on process engineering and quality management.
Work at Sangamo Therapeutics
Neslihan Dela Cruz currently serves as the Director of CMC Strategy at Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc. She has held this position since 2020. In her role, she focuses on the development and implementation of strategies related to Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) to support the company's therapeutic programs. Her leadership contributes to the advancement of innovative therapies within the organization.
Previous Experience in the Biotech Industry
Neslihan Dela Cruz has extensive experience in the biotech industry. She worked at Genentech in various capacities, including Principal Technical Manager for External Quality from 2013 to 2015, and as Principal Site Manager for Contract Manufacturing Operations from 2015 to 2017. During her tenure at Genentech, she implemented statistical process monitoring in cell culture manufacturing processes and conducted critical path analysis to expedite GMP clinical process development.
Education and Expertise
Neslihan Dela Cruz earned her Master of Science (MSc) in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. She is Greenbelt certified in Operational Excellence and Lean Six Sigma, indicating her proficiency in process improvement methodologies. Additionally, she holds an AQS ISO 9001:2008 certification as a Lead Auditor, further showcasing her expertise in quality management systems.
Career Path and Roles
Throughout her career, Neslihan Dela Cruz has held various engineering and management positions in the biotech sector. She worked at Amgen as a Principal Engineer from 2007 to 2011 and at Biotie Therapies Inc. as Associate Director of CMC Operations from 2012 to 2013. Earlier in her career, she was a Process Engineer at Fluor Daniel for one year and served as a Senior Engineer and Group Leader at Genentech for nine years.
Leadership in Technical Operations
Neslihan Dela Cruz has demonstrated leadership in technical operations during her time at Intarcia Therapeutics, Inc., where she served as Director of Technical Operations from 2017 to 2020. In this role, she managed various aspects of technical operations, contributing to the successful development and manufacturing of therapeutic products. Her experience spans both biologics and small molecules production.